Ozark Empire Fairgrounds | Springfield MO

The Ozark Empire Fairgrounds, located at 3001 North Grant Avenue in Springfield, Missouri, is a comprehensive event complex sprawling over 76 acres. It stands as one of the largest and most versatile fairgrounds in the region, hosting a diverse array of events year-round, from large-scale fairs and agricultural exhibitions to concerts, trade shows, and community gatherings. Its proximity to Interstate 44 makes it easily accessible for visitors from Springfield and beyond.

Grounds and Facilities

The fairgrounds feature more than 100,000 square feet of indoor space spread across multiple buildings, designed to accommodate events of various sizes and types. Central among these is the recently constructed Wilson Logistics Arena, which opened in January 2024. This modern multi-purpose arena has a seating capacity of approximately 6,700, allowing it to host a wide variety of events including sports competitions, concerts, rodeos, and large exhibitions. The arena has quickly become a focal point for entertainment and sporting events in the Ozarks.

In addition to the arena, the fairgrounds include:

E*Plex Center Hall: A large exhibit and banquet hall suitable for trade shows, expos, and conventions.

Central Buildings Event Center: A more intimate facility for meetings, seminars, and social events.

Multiple outdoor spaces capable of hosting festivals, carnivals, livestock shows, and other open-air events.

Major Events

The fairgrounds are best known for the Ozark Empire Fair, a highly anticipated annual event held every summer. The fair usually spans ten days, typically in late July through early August, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. It features a wide range of attractions:

Live entertainment including nationally known musicians and local bands, spanning genres such as country, rock, and bluegrass.

Carnival rides and games that appeal to families and thrill-seekers.

Agricultural exhibits and livestock shows, showcasing regional farming heritage and providing educational opportunities.

Specialty shows and competitions, such as tractor pulls, rodeo events, and pig races.

The fair offers both paid admission and parking options, with adult admission generally around $15 and discounted rates for children.

Another signature event is the Ozark Fall Farmfest, held in early October, recognized as the largest agricultural event in the Ozarks. This event showcases over 1,200 exhibits and features more than 600 head of registered livestock, making it a critical gathering for farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals. Farmfest is free to attend and is highly regarded for its educational and networking opportunities within the farming community.

Attractions and Entertainment

Beyond the major events, the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds host a variety of family-friendly and specialty attractions:

Butterfly Kingdom, a live butterfly exhibit that immerses visitors in a colorful environment filled with various species.

Jurassic Bark, a unique and entertaining show that combines live stunt dogs with animatronic dinosaurs, providing a fun and educational experience.

Pig Races, a popular and lively attraction featuring racing pigs competing for treats, often accompanied by enthusiastic commentary.

Hedrick’s Exotic Petting Zoo, where visitors, especially children, can interact with a wide range of exotic and farm animals.

Throughout the year, the fairgrounds also host free live music performances on multiple stages, presenting a range of musical styles and local talent, enhancing the visitor experience at many events.

Facility Rentals and Community Use

The Ozark Empire Fairgrounds are available for rental, serving as a versatile venue for private and public events. Organizations can book spaces such as the Wilson Logistics Arena for concerts or sporting events, the E*Plex Center Hall for trade shows or large banquets, and the Central Buildings Event Center for meetings and smaller functions. The fairgrounds accommodate everything from weddings and corporate gatherings to community festivals and educational programs.

Visitor Amenities and Policies

The fairgrounds provide ample parking with an on-site fee, generally around $5 during major events. Accessibility is a priority; scooter rentals are offered near Gate 5A during larger events to assist visitors with mobility challenges.

Visitors are advised that smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas, maintaining a clean and family-friendly environment.

Operating hours typically span weekdays from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM for administrative and facility use, while event hours vary depending on scheduled programming.

Impact and Significance

The Ozark Empire Fairgrounds are a cornerstone for community engagement and regional economic activity in southwest Missouri. By hosting over 100 events annually, the fairgrounds provide opportunities for cultural enrichment, agricultural education, entertainment, and business development.

The addition of the Wilson Logistics Arena has expanded the fairgrounds’ capacity to attract large-scale events, increasing tourism and enhancing Springfield’s profile as a regional hub for entertainment and commerce.

In summary, the Ozark Empire Fairgrounds combine extensive facilities, a rich calendar of events, and family-oriented attractions to create a dynamic venue that serves both local residents and visitors. Its blend of traditional fairs, agricultural showcases, modern entertainment, and community-focused programming makes it an essential part of the cultural fabric of the Ozarks region.